Things to Do (Let's Get This Fall Party Started!):

1. Cranberry Bog Tours

Mid-October is the time to see the cranberry harvest. Many bogs offer tours, like Cape Cod Cranberry Bog Tours in Harwich. It’s so cool to see the vibrant red berries floating on the water – a great photo op and super educational for the kids!

2. Leaf Peeping Drives

Cruise down Route 6A (Old King's Highway), especially between Sandwich and Orleans. The historic homes, charming villages, and stunning fall foliage create the most picturesque backdrop. Take it slow and stop often!

3. Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail

This paved trail runs for miles, perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers. The fall colors are beautiful, and it's a safe way for kids to burn off energy. Rent bikes in Brewster or Dennis.

4. Explore Nickerson State Park - Brewster

Brewster's Nickerson State Park is beautiful year-round, but in the fall, the kettle ponds and wooded trails are bursting with color. Great for a nature walk, a picnic, or even some fishing.

 
Make the most of Cape Cod in the Fall with seasonal activities. Fall Pumpkin Patch photo by Greta Georgieva, for the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

5. Visit a Pumpkin Patch/Farm or go Apple Picking

Find a local farm stand or pumpkin patch. Many offer hayrides, apple picking, corn mazes, and other fall activities. Crow Farm in Sandwich or Coonamessett Farm in Falmouth are good places to start looking for those quintessential fall experiences. 

6. Beach Walks

The beaches are so much more peaceful in the fall. Fewer crowds mean more space for running, shell collecting, and just enjoying the sound of the waves. Chatham Lighthouse Beach is great for seals, and Corporation Beach in Dennis is calm for little ones.

7. Ferry over to Nantucket

Think Nantucket is just for a summer getaway? Think again! Bundle up and take the ferry to Nantucket from Hyannis for the day. You'll avoid the crowds but still get to enjoy the cobblestone streets, charming shops, and beautiful lighthouses. For more on what to do on the island, check out our guide to Visiting Nantucket with Kids.

8. Chatham Lighthouse

A must-see! You can't go inside usually, but the views of the ocean and the chance to spot seals are worth the trip. The town of Chatham is also super cute for a little stroll and window shopping.

9. Sandwich Boardwalk

A fun walk over the marsh leading to the beach. It’s a unique experience, especially at high tide, and great for bird watching.

10. Heritage Museums & Gardens - Sandwich

Even in fall, the gardens are lovely, and they often have special exhibits or events. Plus, the antique car collection and the carousel are always a hit with kids.

11. Cape Cod National Seashore Visitor Centers

Check out the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham or the Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown. They have exhibits, rangers who can answer questions, and sometimes offer guided walks. Great for learning about the natural history of the Cape.

12. Whale Watching (Check Seasonality!)

While peak season is summer, some companies still run tours into early fall. The cooler weather means fewer people on the boats, and seeing these magnificent creatures is always a thrill. Check with Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch in Provincetown (currently they schedule through October) or Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises (currently booking through the first weekend in November).

13. Cape Cod Children's Museum - Mashpee

If you hit a rainy day or just need some indoor play time, this place is perfect for younger kids with lots of hands-on exhibits.

14. Visit Provincetown

Even if you just drive to the very tip of the Cape, Provincetown is unique. Walk Commercial Street, grab some fudge, and visit the Pilgrim Monument (you can climb it for amazing views, if your legs are up for it!). For more on what to do in Provincetown, you can check out our guide on 23 Things to do in Provincetown with Kids!

15. Fall Festivals & Fairs

Keep an eye on local events calendars! Many towns have fall festivals with crafts, food trucks, live music, and kid-friendly activities. The Yarmouth Seaside Festival (usually scheduled for Columbus Day weekend) and Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival are popular ones to look for.

16. Mini Golf (If Still Open!)

Many mini-golf courses stay open through Columbus Day weekend, and it's a fun, low-key activity that everyone can enjoy.

See? Cape Cod in the fall is not just beautiful, it’s bursting with family fun! It's about pulling on your boots, grabbing a hot cider, and making those amazing memories with your little ones. Get out there and enjoy it before winter rolls in!

 
Any season, even Fall, the Cape has seafood on the menu! Lobster Pot photo courtesy of the Provincetown Business Guild

Visiting Cape Cod in the Fall - Where to Eat

17. Kream 'n Kone - Chatham

A Cape Cod institution! Think classic fried seafood, clam chowder, and yummy ice cream. It’s casual, kid-friendly, and perfect for a quick, delicious meal.

18. Sesuit Harbor Cafe - East Dennis 

(Outdoor only, check hours!) If the weather is still mild, this place is amazing for fresh seafood right on the water. It’s super casual, you order at the window, and the views are gorgeous. Bring layers!

19. The Marshside Restaurant - East Dennis

Great views of the marsh (especially at sunset), a varied menu with options for everyone (even a kids menu!), and a welcoming atmosphere for families.

20. The Lobster Pot - Provincetown

A P-Town classic! It's busy and bustling, but that means nobody bats an eye if your toddler has a meltdown. Fantastic lobster and seafood.

21. Pizza! (Various Locations)

Seriously, sometimes you just need pizza. Most towns will have a local pizza spot that’s perfect for a low-key dinner. Ask a local for their favorite!

Visiting Cape Cod in the Fall - Where to Stay

22. Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod - Hyannis

This place is a lifesaver, especially if you get a rainy day! The hotel has an incredible indoor water park that will keep the kids busy for hours, plus an outdoor pool (weather permitting), arcade, and a spa for mom to sneak away to.

23. Bayside Resort Hotel - West Yarmouth

Another fantastic option with indoor and outdoor pools, a private beach, and often a lot of family-friendly activities. It's super close to Hyannis attractions.

24. Vacation Rentals (All Over!)

For larger families or if you just want more space and a kitchen (because snacks are life!), check out Del Mar Vacation Rentals, Airbnb or VRBO. You can find some adorable homes with yards perfect for running around. Look in towns like Dennis, Brewster, or Eastham for a good mix of quiet and access to activities.